What is a Pillow Block Bearing?
A pillow block bearing is the housing for an antifriction bearing that provides support for a rotating shaft; not to be confused with a plummer block bearing which is similar but has a different application. Click Here to find out the difference between the two. Pillow block bearings are typically very simple and are made up of a mounted block which houses a bearing. The housing unit extends past the bearing on both sides. You then mount the block to surface parallel to the shaft. Here’s a few different ways they are used:
- Belt Drives Linking Motors and Pumps
- Long Shafts Linking Motors and Industrial Gearboxes
- Conveyor Belt Roller
- Rolling Mills
- Ventilation Systems
- Paper Machine
Read About What They Are Used For
Different Types of Bearings in a Pillow Block Bearing:
- Rolling Elements
- Including Ball
- Cylindrical Roller
- Spherical Roller
- Tapered Roller
- Metallic or Synthetic Bushing
- And, more!
You typically secure the shaft in the bearing with set screws, locking collars, or set collars all set in a cast iron or cast steal pillow block.
4 Reasons to Choose a Pillow Block Bearing:
- Less friction which extends life of machines
- Easy install since they are mountable on most stable surfaces
- Longer bearing life than a simple bushed bearing
- Easy long-term maintenance
Do you need a bearing for your next project? Let our team at MDS help. If you don’t see what you need in our online store or if you have any additional questions, call us at (616) 669-0600 8am – 5pm EST or contact us here. We can search our full inventory or provide a custom solution for you and your team.
